The Mega Bali Guide for First-Time (and Return) Travelers

Being Indonesian, I get a lot of questions about Bali recommendations. Most of the time, I deliver, but sometimes, I forget to mention a few favourites and end up feeling guilty about leaving them out. So, to make it easier (mostly for me), here’s my ultimate Bali guide — filled with things I’ve tried, loved, and still want to explore. Btw, it’s pretty food-centric. But that can’t be a surprise, no?

🌿 Bali Must-Do

In Bali, you can fill your days with massages, yoga sessions, cooking classes, and even tarot readings. If you want to dive deeper, eco-tourism experiences like bamboo crafts or village tours give you a glimpse of local life. Of course, no visit is complete without temple-hopping, spending a chunk of the day in the beach club, sipping Kopi Luwak, and enjoying a leisurely meal at one of the many eateries tucked between rice fields.

🍴 Must-Eat in Bali

Food is at the heart of (my version of) Bali, from the smoky flavours of babi guling and the humble nasi jinggo to all the creative vegan delights. Some dishes that stand out include rujak kuah pindang, a spicy-sour fruit salad with fish broth; nasi jinggo, those tiny rice packs with assorted toppings; sambal embe, a fiery aromatic chilli relish; ayam pelalah, shredded chicken that’s both spicy and tangy; sate kakul, satay made with snails; nasi pedas, those fiery rice plates; and tipat tahu, a comforting mix of rice cakes, tofu, and peanut sauce.

Vegan in Bali

Most Bali restaurants will have vegetarian-friendly menus (at least tofu and tempeh will always be there). Other vegetarian foods to try are Urab Bali and Gado Gado. You can also ask for vegetarian Nasi Goreng (fried rice).

🍲 Warungs and Casual Eats

The best way to eat in Bali is at its countless warungs, each offering a unique taste of local flavour. In Ubud, favourites include Warung Mek Juwel and Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku. Kuta has classics like Warung Made, Warung Eropa, and Warung Bali. Canggu blends surf vibes with health-conscious eats at Warung Bu Mi, Casa Tua, Warung Jaba, and Warung Local. Over in Sanur, the laid-back charm is best experienced at Warung Mak Beng, Warung Men Wati, Warung Rahayu, and Warung Wardani.

Scattered across the island, places like Nasi Tempong Indra and Warung Nasi Pedas Andika round out a delicious map of everyday eats.

🐖 Pork Special (Babi Guling Trail)

For pork lovers, Bali is heaven. My absolute favourite is Warung Babi Guling Pande Egi, which is worth the one-hour from Ubud on its own. Other legends, like Men Lari, Pak Malen, and Kruik Menta, have built cult followings for good reason.

🍛 Don’t Miss the Indonesian Staples

Beyond Bali-specific dishes, there are Indonesian staples you simply shouldn’t miss. Bubur ayam, a comforting chicken congee, is perfect for breakfast. Nasi goreng, Indonesia’s famous fried rice, is available everywhere, while mie ayam — chicken noodles — is a go-to comfort dish. Batagor, fried tofu dumplings with peanut sauce, and Nasi Padang, a West Sumatran feast of curries and rice, are equally iconic. Add to that the fresh seafood and endless varieties of jajanan pasar, as well as those colourful market snacks and sweets, and you’ll quickly see how food alone can keep you busy here.

🥤 Indonesian Drinks to Try

To wash it all down, try a sweet and nostalgic Teh Botol, or go for the ever-popular Bir Bintang. Jamu, a herbal tonic that locals swear by, is best experienced through a jamu-making class. And of course, there’s coffee — from everyday brews to the famous Kopi Luwak — with Bali’s café culture giving you endless options.

🛕 Temples (Pura)

When it comes to temples, my two favourites are Uluwatu and Tirta Empul. Uluwatu sits dramatically on a cliff overlooking the ocean, while Tirta Empul is known for its sacred spring where visitors take part in traditional purification rituals. Both are magical in completely different ways.

🛍️ Bali Markets

Bali’s markets are vibrant and full of energy. The Ubud Art Market is a favourite for souvenirs and crafts, while Samadi Market leans toward organic produce and handmade goods. Seminyak Wet Market brings you into the everyday rhythm of local life, and Badung Market in Denpasar is one of the biggest and most bustling, a must for those who want to experience the island’s daily heartbeat.

---

Bali recommendations by area

🌿 Ubud: Temples, Rice Terraces & Eco Villages

Must-Experience in Ubud

Ubud has a rhythm all its own. Between trekking the Campuhan Ridge, visiting the Monkey Forest, and exploring Pura Tirta Empul, this cultural heart of Bali has carved a special place in mine. Nature lovers will enjoy Tibumana Waterfall and the iconic rice terraces, while the Ubud Art Market offers a colourful glimpse into local life.

If you’re planning longer stays, add Sidemen and Munduk villages, Pura Lempuyang, and the eco-village Kiadan Pelaga to your list — all worth exploring beyond the town centre.

Must-Eat in Ubud

Some of my favourites include Warung Mak Juwel, Nusantara by Locavore Group, Liap Liap, and the famous Bebek Bengil for its crispy duck. Bebek Tepi Sawah, with its signature duck served beside rice fields, is also worth a visit, as are Manisan, Nasi Ayam Kedawatan (Mak Juwel does it better) and Chontea for Japanese-style tea.

Coffee lovers shouldn’t miss Anomali or Bali Coffee.

Still on my personal list are Warung Bu Murni and Suku, a drinking spot recommended by my Amsterdam cousin. On the flip side, a few places didn’t live up to the hype for me — Warung Gauri and Da Compound.

Where to Stay in Ubud

Bisma Eight (Fafa swears by it).

🏖️ Seminyak: Beach Vibes & Instagram-Worthy Spots

Must-Experience in Seminyak

Seminyak is chic and lively. Don’t miss the Seminyak Wet Market, indulge in high tea (with tarot readings!) at Biku Bali, browse boutique shops, sip cocktails at Motel Mexicola, or unwind with a massage and other wellness treatments.

Must-Eat in Seminyak

Bali Bakery is great for a traditional Indonesian breakfast, Biku Bali delivers a memorable high tea, and Ulekan serves an incredible Indonesian feast. Revolver is a must for coffee, and Motel Mexicola is all about drinks and atmosphere.

One spot I didn’t enjoy as much was Merah Putih, which felt underwhelming despite its reputation (and the fact that I went for an anniversary dinner).

Where to Stay in Seminyak

Ize Seminyak (we stayed there twice pre-COVID).

🌊 Kuta: Culture & Convenience

Kuta combines culture with casual dining. The Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park is a must-visit for its monumental statue and performances.

Must-Eat in Kuta

Local favourites include Warung Made, Warung Eropa, and Warung Bali. For seafood, Bale Udang Restaurant is a standout, and coffee enthusiasts will enjoy Bhineka Djaja (Kopi Bali).

🌊 Canggu: Surf, Yoga & Vegan Cafés

Must-Experience in Canggu

Spend time at Samadi Market or La Brissa for local vibes, fresh produce, and shopping. If you’re looking for something creative, try a ceramics wheel-throwing class. Canggu also has plenty of wellness escapes, from infrared saunas (SundayMood is my favourite) to yoga studios (I went and loved both Samadi and Adda Yoga).

Must-Eat in Canggu

Canggu blends casual warungs and international flavours. Highlights for me include Ulekan, Warung Bu Mi, Casa Tua, Warung Jaba, Warung Local, and Teh Manis. For something a bit different, try Pasta Bitte or What The Crab. Health-conscious travellers will appreciate Oma Jamu and Samadi Yoga Café.

To Do in Canggu

Join yoga classes at Samadi Yoga or Adda Yoga, take a cooking class, or indulge in wellness activities around town.

Where to Stay in Canggu

Hotel Plataran Canggu.

Ps. We stayed in Rumah Joglo, and I wholeheartedly advise you to stay away from it, unless you are after sleepless nights due to the gecko sound.

🌅 Sanur: Warung Heaven

Sanur is laid-back, slower-paced, and perfect for food lovers. Top spots for a meal include Warung Mak Beng, Warung Men Wati, Warung Rahayu, and Warung Wardani.

🐟 Jimbaran: Sunset Seafood

Head to Jimbaran Bay for seafood dinners with your toes in the sand. Café Teba, recommended by Che, is my favourite spot for fresh catches served right at sunset.

🌊 Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is perfect for luxury stays and family-friendly resorts.

🏝️ Islands: Slow Travel & Snorkelling

Gili Islands

The Gili trio — Gili Trawangan, Meno, and Air — are known for their laid-back charm. Gili Meno, in particular, offers rich marine life, sea turtles, coral reefs, and the famous underwater Nest sculpture. Snorkelling is accessible directly from the shore.

Nusa Lembongan

This serene escape is home to Dream Beach, a quiet stretch perfect for relaxation and some of the best spots for snorkelling. Warung Nyoman, overlooking the ocean, is a lovely spot for fresh seafood and traditional Balinese dishes.

Mount Batur & Kintamani

A sunrise hike up Mount Batur rewards you with panoramic views of Lake Batur and Mount Agung. The trek takes three to four hours and is best done with a guide. Nearby Kintamani offers cool air, scenic landscapes, and beautiful views of the volcano and lake — ideal for a scenic stop or leisurely lunch.

🎁 Bali Souvenirs & Shopping

Bali is a treasure trove of souvenirs. Food lovers should try Pisang Susu, Milk Pie, Pia Legong, Tolak Angin (herbal medicine in a sachet), and Kacang Bali — perfect for sharing a taste of the island.

For non-food gifts, options include bamboo crafts, teakwood utensils, silver jewellery, essential oils, scrubs, incense cones, Minyak Kayu Putih (eucalyptus oil), spiritual keepsakes like mantra beads or Triduta bracelets, and even dream catchers. A few well-chosen Bali-themed books also make for thoughtful mementos.

🌺 Other Bali Essentials

Before diving into the island, here are a few more handy tips.

• Words to know: Suksma means thanks, while Mowali means hello and you’re welcome.
• Transport: Hire a driver for temple and village trips, or use the Grab/GoJek app for short rides and food deliveries. Yes, GoJek and Grab deliver meals straight to your accommodation — a lifesaver after long days of exploring.

---

Top 10 Non-Food Things To Do in Bali

1. Tarot Reading – Biku Bali (Seminyak) – My go-to in Seminyak is high tea with local snacks, followed by a tarot session.
2. Balinese Massage – Bali – No trip to Bali is complete without surrendering to the healing hands of a traditional massage. Oils, pressure points, and pure bliss.
3. Sunrise Yoga – Bishma 8 (Ubud) – Whether it’s sunrise in Canggu or sunset in Ubud, practising yoga here just hits different.
4. Balinese Cooking Classes – Bali – Yes, it involves food, but the experience is about connection: cooking side-by-side with locals in traditional kitchens.
5. Explore Bali Markets – Badung (Denpasar) – From Ubud Art Market to Seminyak Wet Market, the colours, energy, and quirky finds make market-hopping irresistible.
6. Village & Cultural Tours – Bali – A chance to slow down, wander through local communities, and glimpse everyday Balinese life.
7. Receive a Temple Blessing – Tanah Lot Temple – sit in one ceremony, feel the incense smoke, and soak in the spirituality.
8. Local Workshops – Bali – Jamu making, Batik painting, sound healing, or even wheel-throwing ceramics—Bali is a playground for the soul.
9. Beach Club Day – La Brissa (Canggu) – Claim a cabana, sip coconuts or cocktails, and unapologetically spend an entire day doing nothing but staring at the ocean.
10. Nature Walk – Bali – Rice terrace strolls, jungle walks, or simply sitting riverside. Bali is lush, green therapy.

Now to my ultimate reason to keep coming back to Bali:-

Top 10 Foods to Eat in Bali and Restaurant Recommendations

1. Crispy Fried Duck – Bebek Tepi Sawah (Ubud) – Best enjoyed over lunch with sweeping views of the rice fields, this is a classic Bali experience.
2. Nasi Campur Bali – Warung Made (Seminyak/Ubud) – Simple yet iconic, this mixed plate of Balinese staples never disappoints.
3. Roast Pork – Warung Babi Guling Pak Egi (Ubud)– a no-frills spot serving authentic Balinese roast pork — a must-try local delicacy.
4. Fish Soup & Fried Fish Combo – Warung Mak Beng (Sanur) – A little out of the way, but worth the trip. Their fish soup and fried fish combo is legendary, even earning a spot on Atlas’s “best food” list.
5. Dishes from Across Indonesia – Nusantara by Locavore (Ubud) – My absolute favourite when I want a break from warungs, serving beautifully presented dishes from all over Indonesia.
6. Nasi Pedas – Ibu Andika (Canggu) or Warung Mak Juwel (Ubud) – For fiery, flavour-packed meals. Nothing fancy here — just unapologetically spicy and delicious.
7. Grilled Seafood by the Beach – Teba Café Jimbaran (Jimbaran) – Perfect for a sunset dinner. Arrive a little early to secure the best seats by the water.
8. Indonesian-Style Breakfast – Bali Bakery (Seminyak) – Don’t miss the chicken porridge. Most of the cakes and dishes here are excellent, too.
9. Local Sweets – High Tea at Biku Bali (Seminyak) – With its charming ambience, Biku Bali is the perfect stop for high tea, offering both Indonesian and Western treats.
10. Kopi Luwak– Bali’s most famous (and controversial) coffee. Try it at least once to experience it.

Bali is messy, fragrant, colourful, and endlessly delicious. Every visit is a mix of culture, chaos, and magic — from warung lunches to temple visits, rice field swings to eco-village adventures. And it’s waiting for you!

Follow me on Instagram @KultureKween for more recent updates.